Monitor the repeater first, to make sure it is not in use
by other operators, before making your call.

Please do not kerchunk the repeater to see if it's operational! Instead,
identify your station by saying "W9xxx monitoring". This lets everyone know you're around.

Identify legally; you must identify with your call sign at the end of your
conversation, as well as at 10-minute intervals during the communications. You do not have
to identify after each transmission.

Wait for the repeater beep before keying up! This delay time (approximately 1.5
seconds) allows for other stations who may have emergency traffic the chance to break in.

Don't hog the repeater! Many people monitor the RACES repeater, or use it as a calling
channel, and then move off to another repeater or to a simplex frequency. Talk for a few
minutes, then give someone else the opportunity to use the repeater. In addition, common
courtesy prevails in the morning and afternoon drive times, when the repeater is
particularly busy. Share the repeater!

Don't break into a conversation unless you have something to worthwhile to add.
Interrupting is no more polite on the air than it is in person.

Use plain language on the repeater. It reduces confusion, and works just as well as
Q
signals and 10-codes.

Remember, the repeater can be heard for at least 40 miles in all directions. Many
people listen to it! If there's something you don't want everyone to hear, don't broadcast
it on the repeater. Common sense prevails! Think! Be a "professional" amateur
radio operator.

Above all, emergency communications have absolute priority over all other radio
transmission. If someone needs assistance, help them out. If you can't help, don't
interrupt, but do monitor the frequency. Use of
Break Tags during net operations is encouraged.

Remember, even if you can hear the repeater, it doesn't mean it can hear you! If you're
in a bad or distant location, your signal may not be clear enough to understand. Portable
radios have limited range and power, and don't have the coverage that a home or car radio
have.